MLK DAY: Gorge communities gather for Jan. 20 celebration

Gorge residents are invited to participate in a musical celebration of the life, work and dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 20, at 6:30 p.m.

The theme of this year’s celebration, sponsored by Gorge Ecumenical Ministries (GEM), is “The Dreams of Martin Luther King Jr. Live On: Building a Community With Justice for All.” The event will feature music from a community-wide gospel choir, directed by local musician Tim Mayer.

The MLK events will take place at Riverside Community Church, located at Fourth and State streets in downtown Hood River. They are free of charge and open to the public.

Care to sing?

The MLK Gospel Choir will rehearse at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Riverside Community Church. Those interested in being a part of the choir are invited to contact Paul Thompson at 541-490-1044.

The musical event will be preceded by a potluck dinner for friends and members of GEM, which will begin at 5:30 p.m.

“On the MLK holiday we will gather to reflect upon and celebrate the spirit-filled, justice-oriented work of King,” remarked Rev. Vicky Stifter. “We will also lift up the injustice and unfulfilled dreams that still exist in the lives of many in our own community.” In addition to the music, event organizer and Gorge resident Graciela Gomez will share words of inspiration and challenge.

Donations will be accepted to benefit the work of Peace Village, an interfaith program that introduces children and youth in our communities to the principles and experience of non-violent conflict resolution.

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The play “Driving Miss Daisy,” which refers to Dr. King as part of its theme of individuals working for civil rights, opens at Columbia Center for the Arts on Jan. 17.

The play is produced and directed by Lynda Dallman for the annual Plays for Non-Profits. Ticket sales benefit three groups: The Next Door Inc., Friends of the Hood River Libraries, and Start Making A Reader Today. See Happenings, page B3, for details.